Have you ever wondered why fruitcake has earned such a polarizing reputation during the holiday season? While many regard it as a traditional favorite, others shy away from its dense texture and fruit-laden appearance. The truth is, a well-made fruitcake, like our Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake, can be a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holidays. In this post, we’ll guide you through an easy-to-follow recipe that promises to transform your perception of fruitcake and fill your home with holiday cheer.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Quantity | Substitution Options |
|---|---|---|
| Dried mixed fruit (e.g., raisins, currants, sultanas) | 400 g | Use fresh fruits like diced apples or pears for a lighter version |
| Glacé cherries | 100 g | Substitute with chopped dates or dried apricots |
| Walnuts, chopped | 100 g | Pecans or almonds work well as alternatives |
| Unsalted butter | 250 g | Coconut oil for a dairy-free option |
| Soft brown sugar | 200 g | Maple syrup or honey for natural sweetness |
| Eggs | 4 large | Flaxseed meal mixed with water as a vegan substitute |
| All-purpose flour | 250 g | Use whole wheat flour for added fiber |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | Replace with baking soda, but use less |
| Your favorite spices (e.g., cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice) | 2 teaspoons | Experiment with pumpkin spice mix for variety |
| Orange zest | Zest of 1 orange | Lemon zest can add a zippy flavor |
| Dark rum or orange juice | 100 ml | Use apple juice for a non-alcoholic version |
Timing
The Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake is not only a delightful holiday dish but also efficient to prepare. The preparation time takes approximately 20 minutes, followed by a baking time of about 70 minutes, amounting to a total of 90 minutes. This is around 20% less time than the average fruitcake recipe, making it a perfect choice for busy holiday schedules.
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Baking Time
70 minutes
Total Time
90 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). This lower temperature ensures even baking and keeps your fruitcake moist and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the dried mixed fruit, glacé cherries, and chopped walnuts. Add a splash of dark rum or orange juice to enhance the flavor and let this mixture soak in for a few minutes while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and soft brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step not only incorporates air into the batter but also contributes to the cake’s overall texture.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps create a smooth and uniform batter.
Step 5: Sift in Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and spices. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful to not overmix, as this could lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Fold in the Fruit Mixture
Gently fold the soaked fruit mixture into the batter until evenly distributed. This step adds rich flavor and texture, making each bite a holiday delight.
Step 7: Prepare the Tray
Line a traybake tin (approximately 30x20cm) with baking paper for easy removal. Spoon the mixture into the tin, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 70 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, lightly cover with foil after 45 minutes of baking.
Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps preserve its moisture.
Nutritional Value / Health Benefits
| Nutritional Component | Per Serving (1 piece, approx. 100g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Fats | 14 g |
| Sugars | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
This fruitcake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, packed with fiber from the dried fruits and healthy fats from the walnuts. Each bite not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also provides essential nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence during the festive season.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to maintain your holiday spirit without compromising on health, consider these modifications:
- Replace all-purpose flour with whole grain flour to boost fiber content.
- Substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for reduced saturated fat.
- Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to lower glycemic impact.
- Incorporate seeds like chia or sunflower seeds for extra nutrition while adding crunch.
- Opt for fresh fruits instead of candied varieties to reduce sugar and increase vitamins.
These tweaks ensure that the traybake remains delicious while catering to various dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake, a few creative ideas can elevate this traditional dessert:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a festive touch.
- Pair with a cup of spiced tea or mulled wine to complement the rich flavors.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces and arrange on a platter for a party-friendly option.
- Drizzle with a simple glaze made from icing sugar and lemon juice for a sweet finish.
These personalized serving options not only enhance the traybake but also create a delightful experience for your guests.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even when making this straightforward recipe, certain pitfalls can arise. Here are the common mistakes to watch for in your baking journey:
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
- Skipping the soaking step: Letting the fruit soak enhances flavor; don’t skip it.
- Baking at a too-high temperature: Maintain the temperature to ensure even cooking.
- Using old ingredients: Fresh ingredients yield the best flavors; always check expiry dates.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your fruitcake turns out perfect every time.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftover fruitcake can be stored conveniently to enjoy later:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or foil.
- Store in an airtight container to keep in moisture and flavor.
- For longer storage, freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly. They can last up to three months.
Refrigerate for short-term storage but avoid freezing with cream toppings, which can alter the texture.
Conclusion
In summary, our Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake is an approachable holiday recipe packed with delightful flavors and a wealth of nutritional benefits. We invite you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below or leave a review. Don’t forget to subscribe for more festive updates and delicious recipes!
FAQs
A: Can I make this fruitcake in advance?
Absolutely! This fruitcake actually tastes better after a day or two. You can make it up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container.
B: Can I substitute fresh fruit for dried fruit?
While dried fruit provides a concentrated sweetness and a chewy texture, you can use fresh fruit. Just note that the cake’s final texture may vary.
C: How do I know when the fruitcake is done baking?
Insert a skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If it’s sticky or wet, give it more time.
D: Is it okay to skip the rum in the recipe?
Yes, you can skip the rum or replace it with orange juice for a non-alcoholic version. The cake will still be delicious!
E: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if you want a larger batch, feel free to double the ingredients and use a bigger tray. Just keep an eye on the baking time.
Print
Irresistible Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake Holiday Joy
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Try this Festive Christmas traybake a delicious fruitcake treat that brings holiday joy to your gatherings Perfect for sharing and celebrating 154 chars
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A delightful fruitcake traybake that captures the essence of the holidays with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, perfect for festive gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
Keywords: Christmas, Fruitcake, Traybake, Dessert, Holiday Recipe
Leave a Comment